Everyone is saying how the Rancilio Silvia+Rocky were great 10 years ago for the range. Ok then, but tell me what is the best grinder+espresso machine (both new) combination in the $900-1100 price range?



...split from Rancilio Silvia: With or Without PID? by moderator...

I am a neophyte when it comes to this stuff. Not an expert in any way, shape or form.....but I do have an opinion and I hope my opinion is respected by the members of this forum. I bought a Rancilio Silvia and the Rocky Doser grinder. I went over budget. BUT I live in Canada and for the money I spent locally( no shipping fees for the 60 kg items) and for the peace of mind I get knowing if something goes wrong I can take it to the local repair shop. Plus I get personalised service...the Italian made machine and grinder was a hell of a deal. Budget...Budget....Budget

caffe1nated wrote:Everyone is saying how the Rancilio Silvia+Rocky were great 10 years ago for the range. Ok then, but tell me what is the best grinder+espresso machine (both new) combination in the $900-1100 price range?

Quamar M80 Espresso Coffee Grinders : $449

Ceado, Mazzer, Quamar - Commercial Espresso Grinders

EDIT : the 1st-Line page by price shows the Maverick for $499, the actual page $599. Not the first time @ 1st-Line
Isomac Maverick Espresso Machine : $499 $599
...

or

Le'Lit PL041 Espresso Machine : $429


Personally, I'd get the Quamar or better and a used machine, saving for a future machine upgrade.

Baratza Vario and Gaggia Baby. The Vario (or the Qumar) are both sweet grinders, up to commercial standards. The Baby has a commercial group and a three way, so allows you to use good commercial baskets, naked PFs etc.

Frothing is the Achilles heel at this price point; and I would recommend a fixer upper HX if you want to cappas and are handy, or adding 400 to 500 to your budget if you want all new gear.

WLL is having a sale this week, vario and silvia for under $1000
http://www.wholelattelove.com/WLLMachinePackages/silvia_vario.cfm

I think the silvia is overpriced normally, but this isn't a bad deal.

Randy

Yah I got a great deal from SeattleCoffeeGear